Iceland

Discover the Wilds of Iceland Onboard the Ocean Albatros

Program No. 24633RJ
Join others who love learning as much as you do as you circumnavigate Iceland onboard the Ocean Albatros, and immerse yourself in the country’s natural wonders and rich history.

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At a Glance

A land of geologic marvels teeming with fjords, volcanoes and lagoons, Iceland’s incredible landscape is a must for any great explorer to experience — and we can’t think of a better way than on this exclusive Road Scholar Floating Campus voyage! Board the brand-new Ocean Albatros for a voyage that begins in Reykjavik and leads you on a journey to the Westman Islands, Akureyri, Grimsey Island and beyond. Immerse yourself in the wildlife and geology of the region as your onboard instructors offer their insight during lectures, Q&A sessions and casual discussions. In true campus style, take part in onboard activities like a book club or photography instruction, enjoy a live performance and get to know other Road Scholars who share your love for learning and exploration.
Activity Level
Choose Your Pace
This program offers two activity levels to choose from on every departure date: one that has more walking and standing and one at a less active pace. Must be comfortable getting in & out of tender boats and zodiacs, feel comfortable navigating around the ship and handle stairs while on board. PLEASE NOTE: The ship is not suitable for Wheelchair/Electric Scooter use.

What You'll Learn

  • Spend two nights in Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik before your voyage begins to explore landmarks like the National Museum, Höfði House and the Blue Lagoon.
  • Add to your birding life lists as you sail along the coasts of Grimsey Island and Westford, known for their vast populations of seabirds.
  • Explore Westman Island, known for its volcanic activity and as the home of the largest Atlantic Puffin colony in the world.
  • Enjoy the camaraderie of other Road Scholars as you take in private lectures, unique field trips and take part in educational onboard activities on this exclusive Floating Campus voyage.

General Notes

This learning adventure is part of Road Scholar’s Floating Campus. You’ll enjoy a true campus feel as we have the entire ship to ourselves and welcome a maximum of 150 Road Scholars, and enjoy field trips onshore in smaller groups of 35. Onboard experts will be on hand throughout the voyage and will offer instruction during exclusive lectures, Q&A sessions and discussions. Enjoy a book club, onboard activities, a live performance and the camaraderie that can only be found with an entire ship full of fellow Road Scholars! Please note that we need a minimum number of participants to enroll in this program to have exclusive use of the ship. In the unlikely event we do not meet the minimum number, then the cruise line may have its own passengers on the ship, though they will not be part of any Road Scholar activities.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Brian Williams
Brian Williams is Emeritus Professor of Geology at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. He has published more than 100 papers and several books. He is also a consultant to the oil industry and small geological companies. His studies have taken him to all corners of the globe, giving him the opportunity to share his enthusiasm for rocks and earth processes with adult education classes, industry personnel and students alike. When he is not "geologizing," Brian is passionate about rugby, American jazz, literature, film and travel.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Brian Williams
Brian Williams View biography
Brian Williams is Emeritus Professor of Geology at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. He has published more than 100 papers and several books. He is also a consultant to the oil industry and small geological companies. His studies have taken him to all corners of the globe, giving him the opportunity to share his enthusiasm for rocks and earth processes with adult education classes, industry personnel and students alike. When he is not "geologizing," Brian is passionate about rugby, American jazz, literature, film and travel.
Profile Image of Carolyne Larrington
Carolyne Larrington View biography
Carolyne Larrington is an Emeritus Research Fellow at St John’s College, Oxford and former professor of medieval European literature at Oxford University. She has been visiting Iceland and studying its literature for more than forty years. She has translated the most important collection of Old Norse mythological poetry, the Poetic Edda, and has written two books on Old Norse myth. Carolyne has been honored by the President of Iceland for her services to Icelandic literature, and is a member of the Order of the Falcon.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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